The American Lung Association (ALA) released its annual “State of the Air” report on Wednesday, highlighting the impact of poor air quality on children before birth. The report emphasized that exposure to high levels of poor air quality can increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight in babies.
Dr. Aaron Levy from Atrium Health’s Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte emphasized the connection between poor air quality and conditions like preeclampsia in pregnant women. The ALA’s report also showed that Mecklenburg County received a “C” grade, marking the first time the county had passed the assessment. This improvement was attributed to a decrease in the number of high ozone days between 2020-2022.
Researchers emphasized that people exposed to poor air quality are more susceptible to asthma, chronic illnesses, and weakened immune systems. It is crucial for individuals to be aware of air quality levels and take precautions, such as limiting outdoor activities when alerts are issued. More information about the ALA’s report, including city and state report cards, can be found on their website. Experts recommend following tips to stay safe during poor air quality days to mitigate the health risks associated with exposure to pollution.
The ALA’s report also highlighted some notable instances of poor air quality in other counties across the country, such as last summer when smoke from Canadian wildfires drifted south, affecting the air quality in several regions.
Overall, it is essential for individuals to understand how poor air quality can negatively impact their health and take steps to protect themselves from exposure whenever possible.
